International desk: Researchers of the country have discovered a new species of fish in the eastern part of China. The recently discovered colorful fish has been named Apsarichthys iridescens. The discovery was published in the latest edition of the international academic journal Zucchis.
The research was led by Professor Yang Chinchuan of Shanghai Ocean University in collaboration with Zhejiang Forest Resource Monitoring Center and other institutions.
The new species of fish has 14 percent different genetic characteristics than its closest species, the researchers said. It is found in the Qianthang and Wuqiang Rivers and the lower reaches of the Yangtze River in Zhejiang Province.
Yang said the fish that live in the stream are mainly food for waterfowl and other animals. The fish also plays a role in river water purification. He also said that it is important to save the species to maintain the balance of the aquatic ecosystem.
